Rosie Cooper MP angered by ending of Skelmersdale Transport Scheme

25th October, 2018

West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper has hit out at the closure of the Skelmersdale Employment Transit scheme.

The taxi scheme, funded by developer contributions secured through planning permissions for development on Pimbo Industrial Estate, provided transport to work for many Skelmersdale residents, where adequate transport is a real barrier people wishing to work.

Now Lancashire County Council have announced they will no longer be administering the scheme as West Lancashire Borough Council informed them they are no longer in a position to fund it.

Rosie Cooper MP said:
“This taxi scheme has been a lifeline to hundreds of workers for many years who otherwise had no means of transport available to them to get to work. Many travel for shift work early in the morning or late at night, or use the scheme for standard working hours where public transport doesn’t service.

“Residents and businesses are contacting me to express their frustration and the impact this will have on their lives and their businesses. Some workers could end up unemployed if they can’t find alternative means.

“I have written to both West Lancashire Borough Council and Lancashire County Council to get an update on the situation and see what can be done to support those workers affected.”